West Ham United have taken decisive action in the January transfer window, with reports indicating a full agreement has been reached to sign Gil Vicente striker Pablo. The deal, branded a 'done deal', is valued at a total of €23 million.
Medical Scheduled as Hammers Act Swiftly
According to Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg, the 21-year-old Portuguese forward is expected to arrive in London to undergo his medical. The move is advancing rapidly, with the club hoping to finalise the transfer before their crucial Premier League fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Saturday.
The push for reinforcements comes at a critical time for West Ham. Following a 2-2 draw with Brighton & Hove Albion, the club remains entrenched in the Premier League's bottom three, four points adrift of safety with half the season played.
Addressing a Critical Striker Shortage
Manager Nuno Espirito Santo has been operating with a severe lack of options in the central striker role. Callum Wilson is the only natural centre-forward in the squad, forcing the use of wingers Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville in the position in recent matches.
Pablo has emerged as the solution after West Ham explored other targets. The club had shown interest in Coventry City's prolific duo Ellis Simms and Haji Wright, who have fired the Sky Blues to the top of the Championship. A move for Wolves' Jorgen Strand Larsen was also considered but deterred by a £40 million asking price.
Profile of the New Signing
The Brazilian-born striker has been in impressive form this season in Portugal's top flight. Playing for Gil Vicente, a club punching above its weight in fourth place, Pablo has contributed nine goals and one assist (10 goal involvements) in Liga Portugal. His potential arrival offers hope for a squad desperate for a reliable goal threat in their fight for survival.
With Nottingham Forest and Leeds United currently above them, and the latter holding a game in hand, West Ham's investment in Pablo signals their intent to escape the drop zone. The completion of this deal could provide a vital boost ahead of a pivotal run of matches.
